Introduction to Kuala Muda
Kuala Muda is a small fishing village located at the mouth of Sungai Muda. I explored Kuala Muda on the same day AsiaExplorers was involved in the mangrove replanting project along the Kedah coast. It was a clear blue day, and this give me an opportunity to get the above photograph for AsiaExplorers.
Since ancient times, Kuala Muda is one of Kedah's most important ports. There is a fort at Kuala Muda, called Kota Kuala Muda, which was built in the 18th century. Kota Kuala Muda continued to flourish after the British occupied Penang Island, stimulated by the rise in trade and prosperity of Penang. In 1811 Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin made Kuala Muda his residence, to escape increasing pressure from the Thai. When the Thais invaded Kedah in 1821, he was still living in Mudla Muda. Eventually, however, he went into exile in Penang.
The bustling fishing port at Kampung Kuala Muda.
The Thais occupied Kedah for 21 years. During this time the economy of Kedah suffered under their rule, and the glory days of Kuala Muda as a significant port came to an end.
Kuala Muda was one of the areas badly hit by the December 2004 tsunami. As a result of the tsunami, over 4000 people had to be evacuated and placed in temporary shelter in 8 schools. As part of our social effort, AsiaExplorers participated in a mangrove reforestation programme which was held on 13 March 2005.
Getting to Kuala Muda
From the North South Expressway, take Exit 170 at Sungai Petani Selatan. Look for signage to Kampung Kuala Sungai Muda. To reach the mouth of Sungai Muda, ask for direction to Kampung Bagan Ulu. It is on the south bank of the river overlooking Tanjung Dawai on the northern bank.
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Kuala Muda Photo Gallery
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(top) The bustling fishing port of Kuala Muda.
(right) Sorting out the catch.
(below) View of Sungai Muda not far from the river mouth.
Sorting out the catch.
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Fishermen coming in with their catch. They sold it to the highest bidder in a form of whisper auction.
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(right) The Merdeka Bridge crosses Sungai Muda. The houses at Kuala Muda village are mostly Chinese.
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